8 Ways to Increase the Life of Your Hearing Aid Batteries

Increasing the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries could save you both time and money. If you can get a couple of additional days out of each battery, that’s a decent amount saved through the course of a year.

Fortunately, there are actually a number of things you can do to maximize your hearing aid battery life. If you can convert these eight recommendations into habits, you should see a difference immediately.

Listed below are eight ways to maximize the life of your hearing aid batteries.

1. Buy new hearing aid batteries

Hearing aid batteries unopened in the package can last for years. However, just like all batteries, power is reduced as each year passes, so it’s always more advantageous to buy the newer package.

2. Don’t remove the tab until you’re ready to use them

Hearing aids use a specialized type of battery known as a zinc-air battery. Each one has a plastic tab covering tiny holes on the top of the battery. Right after the tab is removed, air enters the holes and stimulates the zinc.

After this happens, the battery is live and the power will begin draining (reapplying the tab has no effect). That’s why you should pull the tab only if you intend on using the battery immediately.

3. Apply the five-minute rule

After you remove the tab, don’t place the battery into the hearing aid immediately. Rather, wait about 5-7 minutes. This will permit the air to properly activate the battery, increasing its life by as much as three days.

4. Store at room temperature

You might have heard that you can extend the life of your batteries by storing them in your refrigerator. The frigid temperature decreases the discharge of power, or so the reasoning goes.

The problem is that the exact opposite takes place. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that develops from the refrigerator leads to corrosion and a higher risk of early failure.

Simply store your batteries at room temperature for the best outcome.

5. Leave the hearing aid battery door open when not in use

If you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This reduces drain and blocks corrosion. But keep in mind, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; temperature changes and moisture are detrimental to the batteries. Your bedroom side-table is probably the safest place.

6. Purchase a hearing aid dehumidifier

With a hearing aid dehumidifier, you won’t have to worry about where to store your hearing aids. At night, place your hearing aids in the dehumidifier to remove moisture and to provide a secure place for storage.

7. Remove the batteries if you won’t be using your hearing aids for extended periods

If you don’t plan on using your hearing aids for a while, removing the batteries entirely will help prevent corrosion from collected moisture within the hearing aid.

8. Wash your hands before changing the batteries

Always keep in mind that dirt, grime, and moisture are bad for both the hearing aid batteries and the hearing aids themselves. That’s why it’s crucial to wash your hands before changing the batteries.

The Best of the Best Once again in November 2017, our local newspaper, the Richmond Times-Dispatch announced that Hear Virginia was a finalist and second runner-up in the category of ‘Best Hearing Aid Store.‘ We thank our patients for this additional honor. We will do our best each day to continue to earn your ongoing trust and recognition.